Nurse practitioner-led rapid OAT access within the MSIR

The Medically Supervised Injecting Room (MSIR) in Victoria opened in 2018, followed by the launch of a Consulting area in September 2019, providing Opioid Agonist Treatment (OAT). Managed by Nurse Practitioners, Nurses, and Harm Reduction Practitioners, the service has rapidly expanded, with approximately 250 clients commenced or restarted on OAT in 2022-2023 alone. This model prioritizes harm reduction, emphasizing client autonomy and strives to reduce barriers through flexible and rapid access to treatment. Evolving through challenges and successes, it highlights how Nurse Practitioners can be utilized in innovative care models to address gaps and challenges within the current AOD system.

Temika Mu | Nurse practitioner candidate, North Richmond Community Health

Temika Mu is a Nurse Practitioner specializing in Alcohol and Other Drugs and Harm Reduction at the Medically Supervised Injecting Room and Turning Point. She has over a decade of clinical and research experience spanning inpatient and community-based settings in Victoria, Queensland and New South Wales.

Dellie McKenzie | Nurse Practitioner, North Richmond Community Health Centre

Dellie McKenzie is a Nurse Practitioner with 25 years’ experience in Alcohol and Other Drugs. She has worked across public and private sectors in Victoria and the Northern Territory, and established Australia’s first AOD service for older adults. She leads a Nurse Practitioner-led clinic at the Medically Supervised Injecting Room.

Credited Persons

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